LIBF Certificate in Financial Studies - Year 12

Taught in: Year 12Exam Board: The London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF)

As an Applied General qualification, the Certificate in Financial Studies (CeFS) is a comprehensive introduction to personal finance. It develops the knowledge and skills required for young people to make informed financial decisions by introducing them to the risks and challenges involved in personal finance and to tools for effective planning. Through developing core skills of critical analysis and evaluation, synthesis and written communication, CeFS provides a foundation for further study in business and finance-related disciplines, as well as a wide range of other fields.

financial services and products, including sources of help and advice;

borrowing, budgeting, financial planning and cash flow;

the impact of external influences at different stages in the personal life cycle;

risk and reward in managing personal finance;

analyse financial information, financial services products and services and begin to make judgements about suitability for people in different circumstances;

understand financial concepts and terminology;

analyse, synthesise, evaluate and reflect;

demonstrate numeracy skills including the ability to manipulate financial and other numerical data;

select appropriate data and information to make arguments;

structure and communicate ideas logically and coherently;

increase ability to work and learn independently.

Preparation for further study

The skills and knowledge developed in CeFS can be extended by taking two further units to form the Diploma in Financial Studies, or by other options for Further or Higher Education study. The financially-related content of this qualification provides a foundation for continued study within finance and business-related disciplines, with many students going on to study subjects such as accounting, business, finance and banking at Higher Education Institutions or through further vocational training. The transferable skills developed are also valuable for further study in unrelated disciplines and the financial capability content and skills support students in making informed decisions about the value of personal, employment and study options and budgeting whilst studying. This qualification carries up to 70 UCAS points and the LIBF website provides further detail about Higher Education support.

Preparation for employment

This qualification develops knowledge and understanding of the financial services sector and enhances skills that are valued within that sector and others, but does not qualify students for direct entry to a particular occupational role. Students will be in a position to make informed choices related to pursuing one of the many roles available within the sector, either immediately, through further study, or whether to apply the financial skills that they have developed to other careers or study options.